Pushing through the fear: Sharing our gifts

Saturday

Jun 29, 2013 at 5:15 PM

A few weeks ago I shared how I was inspired by the words of Rachel Whaley Doll and how she encourages people to share their gifts. Now, she’s telling more of her story… I wrote “Unwrapping Our Dreams” as much to myself as to anyone. Holding out our gifts to share is scary; what if […]

simplyfaithful

A few weeks ago I shared how I was inspired by the words of Rachel Whaley Doll and how she encourages people to share their gifts. Now, she’s telling more of her story…

I wrote “Unwrapping Our Dreams” as much to myself as to anyone.

Holding out our gifts to share is scary; what if it’s not enough? But just before I turned forty, it dawned on me that even if I bomb, if my gift is not accepted, the kids will still go to sleep in a safe, warm bed, there will be enough for breakfast, the earth will not shatter. (I somehow always thought it would!) So in my fortieth year, I decided to put the gifts I had been given “out there.”

I sang the national anthem in front of over five thousand people at a Red Wings game (not even close to my comfort zone!). Here is a link to a vocal recording I have done, http://threadsofcreativity.com/songs/ . I published a book, The Exquisite Ordinary. With Women of the Well, a Biblical Storytelling troupe in Rochester, I helped create and lead programs and retreats.

Sometimes I messed up, forgetting part of my story when telling, or finding a typo the day of the book’s release! But nothing shattered, no one freaked out. I learned lessons that stay with me, and I gain a little self confidence each time I put something out there. I’ve received letters from readers about how they’ve decided to hold their dreams in the light, as well. I am so happy to know my words gave them courage.

We are on this journey together, and it’s so much more beautiful when each one adds their own colorful mark!